75% connected device users say video apps important

April 22, 2014

Video apps are indispensable for most connected TV device users (connected TVs, video game consoles, Blu-ray players and streaming media boxes). According to research from NPD Connected Intelligence, 75 per cent of connected TV app users say video apps are ‘extremely’ or ‘very important’. Netflix ranks on the top of the list of video and TV everywhere Network apps cited as important to connected TV users.

“The importance of having core video aggregation apps such as Netflix and YouTube, has a lot to do with the convenience that allows consumers to easily access a multitude of programming options in one place,” said John Buffone, executive director, Connected Intelligence. “The next wave of TV app user, however, is looking for a different experience than earlier adopters and is placing greater emphasis on TV Everywhere apps from their favourite networks.”

While it’s important for consumers to have the ability to access a diverse set of apps on their TV, finding new channels in the app ecosystem is almost equally important. Among current and prospective connected TV app users, 48 per cent said being able to find new apps impacts the device they prefer to use for apps on their TV.

“There’s a large and lucrative developing audience in the TV app market,” said Buffone. “As new consumers acquire and begin using connected TV devices they are going to be looking for a broader array of Network TV apps. As long as they can find and use new apps easily; we expect network apps to become a destination for viewers looking for their favourite shows.”